When most of us think of layering, we think of it as something to do during the fall and winter seasons. In fact, it is something that a lot of us relish doing once the clocks go back and the nights become darker. Some of us can feel a little self-conscious in typical summer clothes, mainly because many of those fashions leave much of the body exposed. This isn’t for everyone, and that’s why when winter comes around, so many people go crazy for layering. It has practical reasons behind it too. When we layer up our clothes, little air vacuums are creating in between each item. The natural heat produced by our bodies then gets trapped in these vacuums, and that is what keeps us warmer for longer. However, contrary to popular belief, layering doesn’t just have to be a trend that is reserved for winter and fall. It can work just as well on overcast days, and even, dare we say it, in the middle of summer! Fancy adding some layered interest to your outfits but aren’t quite sure where to start? Read on for a handy guide, so you can slay those layers at any time of the year.

Bralettes and underwear as outerwearThe slightly more prude among us are probably cringing at this statement – but don’t stop reading just yet! Underwear as outerwear doesn’t mean going out dressed in next to nothing, or being overly exposed. It simply means using your underwear as a fashion piece as much as practical item of clothing, therefore adding an extra dimension to your outfit. It can be as sexy or as demure as you want it to be – the call really is up to you. A good way to ease into this look is to wear a strappy bralette under a basic tee with a deep scoop neck. This hints at the decorative underwear without being overly vulgar and is suitable for spring/summer fashion too. Another way to achieve this look is by wearing a sheer top over a bralette or a bustier – very modern and great for an evening out.

Image sourceTurtlenecks 2016 saw the return of the turtleneck, and it’s something that is still going strong this year too. Although ideal for wearing on their own paired with jeans or culottes, they are also a great base for building an outfit around. Layer a pinafore dress over a turtleneck and tights for a great early Springtime look – it’s quirky and cute, without being overly formal. Another great way to utilise a turtleneck during the day is by pairing it with some kind of gilet. These kind of vest outfits can be very versatile and whether you go for fur, leather or denim, they all add a touch of interest to an otherwise plain outfit. That is not to say, however, that you can’t achieve a dressy look with a turtleneck. Part of the beauty of this style of sweater is that they already look demure and classy, so you don’t actually have to go to much effort to make them appear formal. Layer them with a blazer in a contrasting color for a smart yet bold look, or pop a lace camisole over the top for something a little more sultry.

Image sourceJewelry Mastering the layering trend isn’t just about what you can achieve with clothing. Jewerly also plays a vital role in layering, and it can be one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to try out the trend for yourself. Layering lots of different necklaces together immediately gives you that carefree, boho-chic kind of look, as if all your jewels are things you have picked up from your travels over the years. Try and mix things up with a variety of different styles. For example, you might want to go for two chokers, one regular length necklace and then a variety of pendants. Just be aware that you may rattle quite a bit when you walk! Another way to layer, or rather stack jewelry, is by wearing multiple rings. There is no set rule that says you can only wear one ring on each hand – so set about building up your collection of different shapes and sizes. Make sure you invest in some midi rings that sit further up the finger, too, to keep things interesting.

Image sourceDresses over trousers When you think of dresses over trousers, you probably have terrible flashbacks to some questionable mid-90s looks you delved into in the past. However, this trend has started to resurface again, but this time with a 2017 makeover. The key to nailing this look is opting for a sheer, floaty dress and pairing it with some fitted trousers or jeans. The whole point of the style is to give you a chance to wear these floaty dresses even when the weather may not strictly permit them, or when you don’t quite feel confident enough to strut your bare legs. Shirt-style dresses work perfectly for this look, especially those in a chiffon material (extra points for a dress with ruffles!). Try leaving the bottom half of the dress unbuttoned, so it doesn’t restrict you and so it flows when you walk. If you feel a little tent-like in this style of outfit, simply cinch yourself in at the waist with a belt and add a pair of court shoes for effortless class.

Image sourceTights under jeans 2017 has brought us a lot of layering trends, but none have taken off quite as much as the ‘fishnets under jeans’ look. Sure, it feels a little uncomfortable at first, but after a few attempts you do get used to it! This look is great for those of us who enjoy dressing a little bit grungy, but equally it is also a great way to feminize an otherwise nondescript outfit. Buy a pair of fishnets in a size a little too big for you – that way, you can be sure that you will be able to pull them up over the waistband of your jeans. Wear with baggy, ripped mom jeans and either sneakers for the daytime or heels for the evening. It’s a fun and quirky look perfect for bringing a touch of youth to your ensemble.